College Search 101: 7 Things Families Need to Consider
If you have a rising high school junior or senior, your recent dinner table conversations may be revolving around campus visits, potential majors, and possibly even the high cost of cross-country flights. Choosing the right college can feel overwhelming.
There are almost 6,000 colleges and universities in the US alone, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. And, families may wonder, where do we even begin?
Location, Location, Location
For some students, staying close to home feels comfortable. Others are ready to spread their wings and explore a brand-new city, state…or even country! A school’s location can shape everything for a student, from weekend activities available, to internship possibilities.
For example, urban campuses offer an abundance of job opportunities and cultural events. Rural schools may offer a stronger sense of community and a quieter atmosphere for studying. Plus, it’s important not to underestimate the impact of weather. Students who are passionate about skiing will thrive in the snowy north, while others who crave year-round sunshine will prefer southern schools.
Another critical factor is distance from home. Consider how often your student will want to (or need to) travel home. Proximity to family can be a big factor in a student’s mental health.
The Small vs. Large School Debate
Size matters when it comes to the college experience. Large universities, such as the University of Delaware (with 19,000+ undergrads), can offer almost endless resources, clubs, and course options, but they can also come with 300-person lecture halls.
Smaller colleges, on the other hand, often foster tighter communities and more personalized learning, with professors who double as mentors. However, a small school may have fewer program offerings and more limited social opportunities.
What’s the School’s Reputation?
There’s no denying that a college’s reputation can carry weight, especially in fields such as law, finance, medicine, or tech. A degree from a prestigious school can certainly open doors. But name recognition alone should never be the sole deciding factor. It’s important to look at program-specific rankings, since a less widely known school may offer the top-tier program in a student’s intended major.
Also, consider the strength of the school’s alumni network. Colleges with active, engaged alumni often provide invaluable career connections, mentorships, and upon graduation, job leads.
Sticker Shock: College Costs and Return on Investment
According to a 2025 Education Dynamics report (surveying more than 3,400 students), a whopping 46% considered the cost of tuition and fees as the most critical factor in their school choice. Tuition, fees, and living expenses can all add up quickly! And reading the financial fine print on a college website may give many families a serious case of sticker shock. However, the actual cost isn't always what it seems, and many families don't pay the full advertised “sticker price.”
Research each school’s financial aid policies, which can vary widely. Some offer generous need-based aid, while others focus only on merit-based scholarships. Private schools often have larger endowments and can offer more financial support. And, a few schools have even begun waiving tuition for families who fall under certain income thresholds (Click to read Newsweek’s recently published “Full List of Colleges That Offer Free Tuition Based on Income.”)
It’s also crucial to think ahead to the years after graduation. What is the college’s return on investment (ROI)? Consider how the cost compares to potential post-grad earnings. US News & World Report, for example, publishes an annual list of “US Colleges with the Best 40-year ROI” which is worth exploring for school evaluations.
What’s Your Major?
Your student may already have a dream career in mind, but it’s important to remember that approximately 30% of college students change their major at least once (sometimes more often!), according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Where majors are concerned, flexibility matters.
If your student is entering college undecided or is prone to change, look for schools that offer a wide range of majors, as well as the ability to switch tracks easily. For example, just how easily can a Business major switch to English? Engineering to Biology? Which credits will transfer, and which will not?
Check if double majors and minors are encouraged. A strong academic advisement department is a huge bonus.
Think Beyond the Classroom
A successful, well-rounded college experience includes more than just academics. Your student should consider the “experiential learning” opportunities that each college offers. Study abroad programs, internships, undergraduate research, co-ops, and alumni mentorships can sometimes be just as important as coursework.
And don’t forget to ask schools about the career development resources available. Do students get help finding internships? Are there major-specific career fairs? Mandatory co-ops? Placement help on graduation?
Finding the Right “Fit”
Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of a school’s social environment. Campus culture can make (or break) a student’s college experience. Some schools are known for their school spirit; others are highly competitive. Diversity, clubs, and extracurriculars all contribute to that intangible, but essential, “fit.”
Campus visits are the key to finding a campus that feels like home. Encourage your student to tour dorms (not just the one on the official tour), attend a class (within their proposed major, if possible), eat in the dining hall, and talk to current students. A campus vibe is something that a website simply can’t convey.